How to get a custom workbench manufactured

Apr 8
14:33

2021

Nick McKay

Nick McKay

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A well designed workbench can bring large productivity gains and improve workplace safety and aesthetics. In this article we’ll examine the workbench design process and explore how to get your perfect bench made by a manufacturer.

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Workbenches are used in a vast array of both domestic and industrial environments. From garages and potting sheds,How to get a custom workbench manufactured Articles to large engineering workshops, work benches are an important part of many daily work and leisure activities. 

In the digital era, many people are searching for unique workbench designs which are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. On Youtube for example a search for “custom workbench” returns many video guides on how to construct your own DIY workbench.

Many of these guides are produced by people with access to fully functional workshops complete with all the tools and materials required.

What if you do not have your own workshop but still would like a custom designed and manufactured bench?

In this case you’ll need a pen, and some paper, and perhaps a tape measure. 

First of all think about the space in which your workbench will be placed and the activities you’ll be using it for. If woodwork, perhaps a woodworking bench with a vice, and tool storage would be sufficient. However if you’ll be using your bench for metalwork, engineering, automotive repair etc you will probably require a steel topped heavy duty workbench.

Measure your available space and calculate how big your workbench will need to be. Remember to consider how the workbench will get into your space if you have smaller doors or entryways. 

Once you have the materials and dimensions written on your paper, start sketching out some details for how you’d like your workbench to look. Even a rough sketch is enough to help your workbench ideas start coming together.

Think about any accessories or extra items you will require, for example, you might want:

  • Electrical sockets
  • Lighting
  • Peg boards or louvre panels for tool storage
  • Cupboards
  • Drawers
  • Shelves
  • ESD surfaces

Once you have the details you need to find someone to manufacture you bench for you. 

Approaching a manufacturer can be daunting. Many people expect that they will be wasting the manufacturer's time asking for a one off bespoke workbench to be constructed. However this is often quite far from the case. 

Many manufacturers can build custom benches to suit customer requirements. For example within the UK there are companies like Spaceguard Ltd who regularly manufacture both standard benches and also fully bespoke workbenches. 

The thing to remember is to make things explicitly clear regarding your workbench requirements. The more information your manufacturer has, the more likely the entire process will run smoothly. 

It may make sense to send in the sketch or plans you have drawn up to help the manufacturer understand your thought process and specifications in more detail. The plans don’t have to be perfect, just enough to get your ideas across clearly. The company mentioned above even has a section on their site for customers to upload their ideas and sketches. 

Hopefully this article provides good starting points for how to get a custom bench manufactured to suit your needs. In my next article we will be exploring bespoke conveyor systems and how to choose the correct specification.

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